If you loved the action-packed drama and martial arts mastery of 'Rise of the Legend' (2014), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver thrilling fight sequences, compelling storytelling, and rich historical backdrops. Whether you're a fan of epic martial arts films or gripping period dramas, these recommendations will keep you entertained.

Once Upon a Time in China (1991)
Description: A classic martial arts epic that combines historical drama with spectacular fight scenes, focusing on the struggles of a heroic figure defending his people and culture.
Fact: The film launched Jet Li to international fame and spawned several sequels due to its popularity.


Fist of Legend (1994)
Description: A remake of a classic martial arts film that updates the story with more realistic fight scenes and a focus on national pride and personal honor.
Fact: The fight choreography in this film is often cited as some of the best in martial arts cinema, influencing many later films.


The Legend of Drunken Master (1994)
Description: A high-energy martial arts comedy that showcases the unique Drunken Boxing style, combining humor with jaw-dropping fight choreography.
Fact: The film was banned in China for several years due to its portrayal of drunkenness, but it later gained a cult following worldwide.


Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Description: A martial arts masterpiece that blends romance, philosophy, and high-flying action, set against a backdrop of ancient China with a focus on personal and societal conflicts.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film, and was the first martial arts film to achieve widespread critical acclaim in the West.


Hero (2002)
Description: A visually poetic martial arts film that explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the greater good, with a narrative structure that unfolds through multiple perspectives.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and is known for its use of color to differentiate between storylines.


House of Flying Daggers (2004)
Description: A visually lush martial arts film that emphasizes romance and betrayal, with intricate fight sequences and a strong emotional core.
Fact: The film's bamboo forest fight scene is considered one of the most beautifully choreographed sequences in martial arts cinema.


Ip Man (2008)
Description: A biographical martial arts film that showcases the life of a legendary martial artist, blending intense action sequences with deep cultural and historical themes.
Fact: The film was a major box office success and helped revive interest in Wing Chun, the martial art practiced by Ip Man.


The Grandmaster (2013)
Description: A visually stunning martial arts film that delves into the philosophy and discipline behind martial arts, featuring breathtaking fight choreography and a strong narrative about legacy and honor.
Fact: The film was in development for over a decade and went through multiple script revisions before production began.


Dragon (2011)
Description: A martial arts film with a strong detective storyline, blending action with mystery and exploring themes of redemption and hidden pasts.
Fact: The film was a collaboration between Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese filmmakers, blending different cinematic styles.


The Raid 2 (2014)
Description: A brutal and intense action film that features relentless fight sequences and a gritty, urban setting, focusing on survival and vengeance.
Fact: The film's fight scenes were choreographed to be as realistic as possible, with actors undergoing extensive training to perform their own stunts.
